"I have to say, this beach resort really is everything. To think I've always wanted a beach vacay." She says.

Jason insisted that we do a beach wedding and spend our time at the beach resort, like a family vacation of some sort. Everyone's here; Mom, Dad, Bertha, Richard, and of course, Eleanor. It's a resort in Mexico that, quite frankly, looks like heaven. I've never been to such a fancy place with elite finishings.

My suite, for example, is a sprawling expanse, with an oversized bedroom and bathroom that seem to dwarf everything else. The glossy marble flooring and upholstery in a regal golden hue leave me spellbound, and I find myself struggling to take it all in. The highlight of the room, however, is the grand jacuzzi, where I while away countless hours, immersing myself in the sheer magnificence of my surroundings.

I wanted a simple wedding, and Jason agreed to it, but how in the world is flying to a different country simple? The thought of his dark smoldering eyes and wavy hair makes me grin. I can't believe we're getting married after such difficult times. The one question I still can't figure out is this; why me? He says because I'm everything. It's cute, but it’s not a comprehensive answer.

“By the way, you didn’t tell me Richard was a dashing young man.”

I giggle. “I mean, his older brother looks like Adonis. What did you expect?”

Her cheeks go red.

“Wait, don’t tell me you already have your eyes on him. Eleanor! Already?”

“C’mon. We had lunch together yesterday, and he’s just refreshing. I don’t have my hopes up yet, but a girl can dream.”

A knock draws me out of my reverie, and the door opens. It's Mom.

I spread my arms and spin around slowly when she pauses in the middle of the suite.

“Such a beautiful bride.”

“I know right?” Eleanor says.

Mom turns to her. “Could you please give us one minute alone?”

“Sure,” Eleanor says and walks out.

Mom sits on the bed, clasping her hands.

“Things have a way of working out, don’t they?”

“They sure do.”

She pulls my hand and motions for me to sit beside her. Rummaging through her tiny black purse, she brings out a little package and hands it to me.

“I got this for you.”

“Aww, Mom.”

“Go ahead, open it.”

I open the small silver box to find a silver necklace inside. It has a heart pendant with a pony crested into it.

“It’s beautiful. I love it.”

Mom beams. “Do you want me to help you put it on?”

I nod, handing it to her.

She stands, moving behind me as she takes the necklace out of its box.

“You know…my mom died before I got a chance to walk down the aisle. I’m glad I get to see you do this.”

Now that I think about it, Mom simply wanted the best for me. She didn’t want me to be a single parent, to go through the emotional turmoil and hard work of raising a kid alone. She just wanted the best for the baby and me, and I respect her for it. Now that she’s certain I won’t be alone, she’s gone all out to make sure I’m happy. She insisted she’d handle the wedding decorations, and Bertha offered to manage the event. They’ve become best friends so fast.

Another knock comes on the door, and it opens. It’s Bertha. She smiles at me and blows a kiss.